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innovations and breakthroughs in areas
such as substrate growth (the digital lm
that converts light into signals), dual-
band focal plane arrays (digital lm that
can capture two di erent types of light
at the same time), variable apertures
(adjustable focus), modeling and simula-
tion (automated computer optimization
of imagery), and sensor miniaturization
(portability).
Obtaining the support of industry and
leveraging their internal research and
development investments required the
Army to build trust in the overall pro-
gram through focused, appropriately
timed acquisition activities conducted
simultaneously across multiple fronts. By
creating partnerships with others, such
as the U.S. Army Communications-
Electronics Research, Development and
Engineering Center (CERDEC) Night
Vision and Electronic Sensors Director-
ate (NVESD) and ManTech, 3rd Gen
FLIR was able to integrate multiple fund-
ing sources to ensure a secure resource
foundation.
CONCLUSION
As the Army reorganizes to modernize
its capabilities, it can look to the success
of the 3rd Gen FLIR program as a pro-
totype. e program has demonstrated
several key elements critical to the suc-
cessful implementation of an innovative
program, which illustrates the transition
from good ideas into actual capabilities
in the hands of war ghters.
It exempli es how the military can bene t
when Army communities work together
to combine requirements with resources,
technology innovation and cooperation.
With all of the participants collaborating,
from the requirements community to the
acquisition and development communi-
ties, the Army overcomes barriers and
is able to create an environment where
innovation thrives, equipping its warriors
with the best technology in the world.
For more information or to contact the
authors, go to www.cerdec.army.mil.
DR. RICHARD NABORS is associate
director for strategic planning and deputy
director of the Operations Division at
NVESD at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. He holds
a doctor of management in organizational
leadership from the University of Phoenix,
an M.S. in management from the Florida
Institute of Technology, and a B.A. in
history from Old Dominion University. He
is Level I certi ed in program management.
MR. NATHAN BURKHOLDER is a
strategic analyst for KITEWIRE Inc. who
supports NVESD. He holds a B.S. in engi-
neering from Messiah College.
BETTER SIGHT FOR MULTIPLE PLATFORMS
An MQ-1C Gray Eagle unmanned aerial system, equipped with 3rd Gen FLIR sensors and
belonging to Company D, 10th Aviation Regiment, prepares to conduct a mission from Al Asad
Air Base, Iraq, in September 2017. Third Gen FLIR sensors are used in current and future air- and
ground-based systems, allowing the military to purchase a single sensor that can be used across
multiple platforms and for a variety of missions, at significant cost savings. (U.S. Army photo by
Staff Sgt. Isolda Reyes, 29th Combat Aviation Brigade)
ASC.ARMY.MIL 207
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY / DASA R&T